A Locals Guide to the Calgary Stampede
Written by: Sydney Brown
Born and raised in Calgary, I have loved living here for three reasons, the Rockies, poutine, and the Calgary Stampede. Every summer, a ten-day celebration held in early July, paying tribute to Calgary’s community spirit and delivering on the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”.
As a seasoned Calgarian, I want to share some of my favourite Stampede traditions, foods, and entertainment. This article highlights my top spots that offer fun for all ages.
Activities for all ages
The Stampede grounds offer endless entertainment from classic rides like the Ferris Wheel and roller coasters to farm animals and petting zoos. There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities.
The Parade
No Calgary Stampede is complete without the Opening Parade. Led by Shania Twain this year, featuring floats and music and held on July 4 at 9am.
See below tips on how to enjoy the parade at home and in-person:
Bring a lawn chair to 9th Avenue
- Aim to arrive an hour early if you’re driving to beat the traffic and keep in mind that most roads downtown will be closed.
- Consider taking the C-Train as an alternative to driving.
Watch it on TV
- Make a stack of pancakes and get comfortable on the couch to broadcast the parade on your favourite channel or stream it with your preferred provider.
Chuckwagon Races and The Grandstand Show
A great way to round off a day at the Stampede is watching the Chuckwagon Races. With spaces for paid seating or free-standing areas just behind the track. Food and drinks are also available here.
The races are followed by the Grandstand Show: Featuring award-winning performers, choreography, and fireworks, the Grandstand Show captures the spirit of the Stampede.
Information and tickets can be found at the Calgary Stampede website: Calgary Stampede | Rangeland Derby
Annual Dog Bowl
Presented by Safeway with free entry at park admission. This show is a crowd favourite guaranteed to delight the whole family: Dog Bowl | Calgary Stampede | July 4-13, 2025.
Stampede Eats
Midway Food
Part of what makes the Stampede great is the variety of food offerings. Featuring Traditional Canadian cuisine, fusion foods and wild flavor creations.
My Stampede staples:
Family Squeezed Lemonade: A locally owned business that truly makes you feel like family. Family Squeezed Lemonade Calgary
- With award winning drinks, they are dedicated to using only fresh fruit and cane sugar to sweeten their products
YYC Mini Donuts: A Classic, buy a bucket and you’ll be shocked just how quickly they disappear! Sweet Treats – Calgary Mini Donuts — YYCFoodTrucks | Calgary Food Truck Bookings and Events
- Perfect to walk around with or enjoy at The Grandstand Show.
Pineapple Dole Whip: A refreshing treat on a hot day with dairy free options available.
- Debuting this year Portuguese Tart pineapple dole whip at Booth #3011
Butter Chicken Poutine: A midway discovery of mine that I know to look for every year.
- Served with a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt and warm crispy fries.
- This underrated fusion dish never seems to disappoint!
Curious about what food is available at Stampede? Information can be found at the Calgary Stampede website here: Calgary Stampede | Midway Food | July 4-13, 2025
Pancake Breakfasts
Nothing says tradition like a Stampede Pancake Breakfast! Scattered across the City, these breakfasts are hosted by volunteers and are typically free, making them a perfect way for families to start the day. Whether you’re indulging in stacks of fluffy pancakes under the sun or discovering a new part of Calgary with friends, it’s a great introduction to Calgary’s welcoming culture for newcomers.
See below for some Pancake Breakfasts in and around Calgary that I really like. If these don’t work for your schedule you can check out this calendar of pancake breakfasts in the City:
Home Coming Hoedown at the Calgary Dream Center– July 3 11:00am: Home Coming Hoedown at the Calgary Dream Centre – Stampede Breakfast 2025
- An award-winning Pancake breakfast featuring Starbucks Coffee
OMO Teppan & Kitchen July 5 8:30am: OMO 8th Annual Green Tea Stampede Breakfast – Stampede Breakfast 2025
- A Japanese Restaurants spin on the traditional pancake breakfast. Featuring Green Tea Pancakes and wagyu korokke harsh browns
Additional Information
Headed to the Stampede Grounds? This section will outline Stampede tickets and admission deals.
Ticket Pricing
- General ages 13-64: $25.00
- Senior ages 65+: $17.00
- Child ages 7-12: $16.00
- Child under 7: Free
Sneak A peek – July 3 only
- Early Access 3:00pm- 5:00pm: $5.00
- General 5:00pm until close: $13.00
Tip: Purchase a Super Pass if you’re planning to visit the grounds daily, perfect for packing in games, rides, and fun.
Super Pass: $50 Stampede SuperPass | Calgary Stampede July 4-13, 2025
- Admission to the Stampede grounds for the full 10 days
For more Information on the Stampede ground admission: Calgary Stampede | Tickets & Admission | July 4-13, 2025
Admission Deals
Parade day– July 4 free admission when you straight from the parade to the Stampede grounds 11:00am- 1:30pm
Family day– July 6 free admission for families before 11:00am
- Free pancake breakfast offered at the GMC courtyard 8:00am – 10:00am
- Free variety show at the GMC stadium 8:00am- 10:00am
Community day– July 8 free admission for everyone 10:00am- 2:00pm
- Free coffee and donuts for seniors 65+
Kids day– July 9 free admission for kids 12 and under
Free admission for everyone until 10:00am For more information on Stampede grounds access deals: Calgary Stampede | Value Days | July 4-13, 2025
The idea for this article came about when talking to new Calgarians and visitors. As I found myself explaining one of my favourite times of the year, the Calgary Stampede. I wanted a way to share my experiences with them. Most importantly, I wanted to share how the festival helped shape my identity.
The Stampede reflects the values that define us as Calgarians: our strong sense of community, our commitment to giving back, and our welcoming spirit. It’s a reminder that our City is home to everyone – especially those who love the Rockies, poutine and, of course, the Calgary Stampede.